Media Camera Work and Camera Angles

Extreme Close Up

An extreme close up is to show detail on the eyes or mouth and is also for attention on a specific object in a TV program or film.

Close Up

A close up is to show facial expression, mood or attitude and dialogue of a character or characters.

Mid Shot

A mid shot is to show a characters costume and to judge what kind of personality they have.

Long Shot

A long shot shows movement and action therefore is good for action adventure programs. A long shot can also show more than one character so can show a group of people.

Establishing Shot

An establishing shot is the first shot you see to establish location so you can be familiar with the surroundings.

Point of view (P.O.V)

In a point of view shot you can see what the character is looking at and engages the audience and so positions you are the character.

Over the shoulder (O.T.S)

An over the shoulder shot is taken behind the character and you can see him as well as the scene.

Two Shot

A two shot is a when two people are in the frame.

Low Angle

A low angle makes a character look powerful and strong. Low angles are normally used with males characters and make them look superior.

High Angle

High angles make a character look smaller and less significant and is often used on female characters. It looks down on a hero if they are falling if they look vulnerable.

Canted Angle

A tilted angle gives a sense of confusion and if someone has fallen over.